Demonstrators on the streets of Beirut. Photograph by Hussein Baydooun
This is a letter from Hala Gharib to her father Hanna and is related to a previously published article on The Descrier entitled Lebanon: Labour Demands Much More Than Better Salaries.
A Girl to her Father
I feel I am small, maybe too small when I read about your accomplishment, when I hear people talking about you, when I see the love in their eyes, when they cheer you and claim you as their teacher, their representative, their leader, as their own father.
I feel small when I see the warrior in your eyes, the sturdiness of the fighter in your frown, your decisiveness, your stubbornness and eagerness for justice make me realise how far I am from all that despite my humble effort.
I feel small when I listen to you, when you say it as it is in front of the politicians’ eyes, your fearless attitude, honest words, courage and faith .. I admire the faith you still have in this country, in the teachers, the public workers who have all crawled to answer your call like they have never done before and will continue to do so because you gave them hope.
I feel small when I taste the victory and you think it is still afar, when I almost reach the end of the fight and you say it is just the start, when I take a rest thinking I am tired and you, graciously working till day light.
I feel small when I touch your silent pain, when you need help but don’t say. You were tough, I must admit, but the heart of this unique man is pure and full of care.
I feel small and words are limiting my flow, how can I be true to the rebellion in you.
You have been an idol, an inspiration for many, a reason to grow, a reason to remake history.
March 2013, London
